Electronic camera

ABSTRACT

An electronic camera comprises an image processing unit that performs image processing using a plurality of adjustment parameters and a parameter setting unit that sets each of the plurality of parameters for the image processing unit according to a single change command.

This is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/219,915filed Jul. 30, 2008. The disclosure of each of these prior applicationsis incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The disclosure of the following priority application is hereinincorporated by reference:

-   Japanese Patent Application No. 2007-204450 filed Aug. 6, 2007.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an electronic camera.

2. Description of Related Art

An electronic camera with which it is arranged for the user to be ableto select the finished image quality due to image processing is known(refer to Japanese Patent Laying Open Publication 2005-217483).According to Reference #1, a group of setting parameters for each of“white balance setting”, “contour accentuation”, “tone correction”,“color mode” and “saturation setting” is stored in advance in theelectronic camera in correspondence to a key word such as “vivid” or thelike. Upon selection actuation by the user, the electronic camera readsout the group of parameters corresponding to the key word that has beencommanded, and changes the finished image quality of the image byperforming “white balance setting”, “contour accentuation”, “tonecorrection”, “color mode” and “saturation setting” using the parametersthat have been read out.

In the prior art, when it has been desired to change the parameters, ithas been necessary to change each parameter individually, and theactuation for doing so has been troublesome.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An electronic camera according to a first aspect of the presentinvention comprises an image processing unit that performs imageprocessing using a plurality of adjustment parameters and a parametersetting unit that sets each of the plurality of parameters for the imageprocessing unit according to a single change command.

An electronic camera according to a second aspect of the presentinvention, in the electronic camera of the first aspect, furthercomprises an actuation member that generates an actuation signal and astorage unit that stores information for setting up a correspondencebetween the actuation signal and amounts of change for the plurality ofparameters. In this electronic camera, it is preferable that, accordingto the actuation signal, the parameter setting unit reads out theamounts of change for the plurality of parameters from the storage unitand changes each of corresponding parameters according to the amounts ofchange that has been read out.

An electronic camera according to a third aspect of the presentinvention comprises an image processing unit that performs imageprocessing using a plurality of adjustment parameters, a parametersetting unit that is endowed with a first setting mode in which it setseach of the plurality of parameters for the image processing unitaccording to a single change command, and a second setting mode in whichit sets each of the plurality of parameters for the image processingunit according to a change command for each of the plurality ofparameters, and a control unit that changes over the parameter settingunit between its setting modes.

An electronic camera according to a fourth aspect of the presentinvention, in the electronic camera of the third aspect, may furthercomprise a notification unit that, if a setting is performed accordingto the first setting mode after a setting has been performed accordingto the second setting mode, notifies that effect before implementing achange from the details set according to the second setting mode.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the electroniccamera of any one of the first through fourth aspects, it is desirablethat the plurality of parameters include at least two parameters among aparameter for changing intensity of contour accentuation, a parameterfor changing contrast, a parameter for changing brightness, a parameterfor changing hue, and a parameter for changing saturation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a figure for explanation of the structure of the principalportions of an electronic camera according to an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 2 is a rear view of the camera main body;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit structure ofthis electronic camera;

FIG. 4 is a figure for explanation of a memory region in whichinformation related to image quality adjustment is stored;

FIG. 5 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 6 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 7 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 8 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 9 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 10 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 11 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 12 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 13 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 14 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 15 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 16 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 17 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 18 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 19 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 20 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 21 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 22 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 23 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 24 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 25 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 26 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 27 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 28 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 29 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 30 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 31 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 32 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 33 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 34 is a figure showing an example of table data for quickadjustment;

FIG. 35 is a figure showing an example of table data for quickadjustment;

FIG. 36 is a figure showing an example of a menu screen;

FIG. 37 is a figure showing an example of a map display screen;

FIG. 38 is a figure showing an example of a map display screen;

FIG. 39 is a figure showing an example of a map display screen;

FIG. 40 is a figure showing an example of a map display screen;

FIG. 41 is a figure showing an example of a map display screen;

FIG. 42 is a figure showing an example of a map display screen;

FIG. 43 is a figure showing an example of a map display screen; and

FIG. 44 is a figure showing an example of a map display screen.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Preferred embodiments for implementation of the present invention willnow be explained with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a figure forexplanation of the structure of the principal portions of an electroniccamera according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, alens barrel 100 of a photographic lens is fitted to a camera main body200, and is built to be detachable.

FIG. 2 is a rear view of the camera main body 200. In FIG. 2, a liquidcrystal monitor 21, a menu button (MENU) 201, a function button (F) 202,a magnify button 203, an execute button (OK), a multi selector 205, anda delete button 206 are provided upon the camera main body 200.

The menu button 201 is an actuation member for displaying an actuationmenu screen that will be described hereinafter upon the liquid crystalmonitor 21. The function button 202 is an actuation member for providinga predetermined display upon the liquid crystal monitor 21. The magnifybutton 203 is an actuation member for causing an image or the like to bedisplayed upon the liquid crystal monitor 21 as magnified. The executebutton 204 is an actuation member for executing an item that is selectedupon a menu screen. The multi selector 205 is an actuation member forshifting the position of a cursor upon a screen being displayed upon theliquid crystal monitor 21 upwards, downwards, leftwards, and rightwards.And the delete button 206 is an actuation member for deleting data suchas an image or the like.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit structure ofthe electronic camera described above. A CPU 18 consists of amicrocomputer or the like. This CPU 18 inputs signals outputted fromvarious blocks of the camera main body 200 and performs predeterminedcalculations, and outputs control signals based upon the results ofthese calculations to various blocks.

A main switch 22 outputs an actuation signal according to ON actuationor OFF actuation to the CPU 18. Upon receipt of an ON actuation signal,the CPU 18 starts supply of power from a power supply circuit not shownin the figures to various blocks; and, upon receipt of an OFF actuationsignal, it stops supply of power from that power supply circuit to thevarious blocks.

A timing generator (TG) 17 generates a timing signal upon a commandissued from the CPU 18, and supplies this timing signal to each of adriver 16, an analog signal processing circuit 11, and an A/D conversioncircuit 12. The driver 16 causes an image sensor 10 to accumulateelectric charge, generates a drive signal for sweeping out theaccumulated electric charge using the timing signal described above, andsupplies this drive signal to the image sensor 10.

The image sensor 10 consists of, for example, a CCD image sensor or thelike. This image sensor 10 captures an image of a photographic subjectthat is imaged by the photographic lens 100 upon its photographic imagesurface. In other words, it accumulates signal charges according to thebrightness of the image of the photographic subject. The image captureprocess may, for example, be started when, upon receipt of an ON signalfrom a full press switch 29 that will be described hereinafter, the CPU18 sends a command to the timing generator (TG) 17.

The analog signal processing circuit 11 includes an AGC circuit and aCDS circuit and the like, and performs analog processing (gain control,noise elimination, and the like) upon the photoelectric conversionsignal (i.e. the accumulated electrical charge) that is outputted fromthe image sensor 10. And the A/D conversion circuit 12 converts thisimage capture signal, after it has been analog processed, into a digitalsignal.

A half press switch 28 and the release switch 29 are turned ON and OFFtogether with operation of a release button (not shown in the figures)by depression actuation, and each of them outputs an actuation signal tothe CPU 18. The ON signal from the switch 28 is outputted when therelease button (not shown in the figures) is pressed downwards to abouthalf of its normal stroke, and its output is cancelled by this halfstroke pressing actuation being released. And the ON signal from theswitch 29 is outputted when the release button (not shown in thefigures) is pressed downwards to its normal stroke, and its output iscancelled by this normal stroke pressing actuation being released.

The photometric device 25 calculates the luminance of the photographicsubject by using the detection signal of a photometric sensor not shownin the figures. And the CPU 18 performs known exposure calculation usingthe image capture sensitivity that is set, information about thephotographic lens 100 that is installed, and the luminance of thephotographic subject that has been calculated, and thereby determines acontrol exposure. The exposure calculation mode is according to theexposure calculation mode set to the camera main body 200. Thecalculation of the photographic subject luminance may be performed, forexample, upon command from the CPU 18 that has received an ON signalfrom the half press switch 28.

A focus detection device 26 calculates the focus adjustment state (thedefocus amount) of the photographic lens 100 using the detection signalof a focus detection sensor not shown in the figures, and calculates ashift amount for an optical system for focus adjustment according to theresult of this calculation. Upon receipt of this shift amountinformation, focus adjustment upon the main photographic subject isperformed on the photographic lens 100 side by shifting the focusadjustment optical system forwards and backwards along the direction ofthe optical axis. This focus detection processing may be performed, forexample, upon command from the CPU 18 that has received an ON signalfrom the half press switch 28.

An image processing circuit 13 performs image processing, and mayconsist of an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or thelike. This image processing circuit 13 performs processing upon theimage data after digital conversion, such as contour accentuationprocessing, γ conversion processing, white balance processing, and thelike. A JPEG compression/expansion circuit 14 performs compressionprocessing upon the image data so as to compress it in the JPEG format,and decompression processing to expand image data that has beencompressed.

A SDRAM 19 is a working memory that temporarily stores data during theprocessing performed by the CPU 18, image processing circuit (ASIC) 13,the JPEG compression/expansion circuit 14 and the like. A memory 20 is anon-volatile memory such as an EEPROM, a flash memory or the like, andstores operating programs for the camera main body 200 and settinginformation and the like. The CPU 18 performs generation of display datafor causing menu screens and replay images to be displayed upon theliquid crystal monitor 21. The display data that has been generated isprimarily stored in the SDRAM 19 and is displayed upon the liquidcrystal monitor 21.

A recording medium 27 consists of a data storage member such as, forexample, a flash memory card or the like. The CPU 18 can store data forphotographic images and the like upon this recording medium 27, and canread out data stored upon the recording medium 27.

Since the electronic camera of this embodiment is endowed with a featureof image quality adjustment setting for the photographic image, in thefollowing, the explanation will center upon this image quality settingoperation. FIG. 4 is a figure for explanation of a memory region inwhich information related to image quality adjustment is stored.

Normal Image Quality Adjustment

This electronic camera is built so as to utilize any one of a pluralityof different types of image quality adjustment algorithms. For example,the following four types of image quality adjustment algorithm may bestored in an image quality adjustment information area that is providedwithin the memory 20 described above.

[1] Standard

[2] Neutral

[3] Vivid

[4] Monochrome

“Standard” is an image quality adjustment algorithm that finishes to astandard image. “Neutral” is an image quality adjustment algorithm thatfinishes with emphasis being accorded to matching the natural colors ofthe raw materials. “Vivid” is an image quality adjustment algorithm thatfinishes to a vivid image. In concrete terms, along with increasing thesaturation so as to process red colors and green colors vividly, itincreases the contrast so as to obtain a sharp image. And “Monochrome”is an image quality adjustment algorithm that finishes to a black andwhite image. The image processing circuit 13 performs image qualityadjustment processing upon the photographed image by using that imagequality adjustment algorithm that has been set (i.e. selected) byactuation upon a menu actuation screen.

Each of these image quality adjustment algorithms is constructed so thata group of a plurality of parameters (hereinafter termed a “parametergroup”) that are used for image quality adjustment processing can bechanged. A parameter group may, for example, include a parameter foradjusting the strength of “contour accentuation”, a parameter foradjusting the strength of “contrast”, a parameter for adjusting thestrength of “brightness”, a parameter for adjusting the strength of“saturation” (i.e. color depth), and a parameter for adjusting the“hue”.

If actuation to change the parameters is not being performed, the imageprocessing circuit 13 performs image quality adjustment processing uponthe photographed image while using a parameter group that has been setin advance for each of the image quality adjustment algorithms (thedefault values). For example, four of these standard parameter groupsmay be stored in correspondence to the corresponding image qualityadjustment algorithms in an area for standard parameters that isprovided within the memory 20 described above.

[1] Default values for “SD”

[2] Default values for “NL”

[3] Default values for “VI”

[4] Default values for “MC”

If parameter change actuation has been performed, the image processingcircuit 13 performs the image quality adjustment processing upon thephotographed image while using a parameter group after it has beenchanged. The parameter group that has been changed is stored in an areafor changed parameters that is provided within the memory 20 describedabove, in correspondence with the corresponding image quality adjustmentalgorithm. In the example of FIG. 4, a parameter group (changed values)that has been changed from a standard parameter group (the defaultvalues for “Vivid”) is stored in this area for changed parameters.

Adding an Image Quality Adjustment Algorithm

This electronic camera is built so that it is possible to add an imagequality adjustment algorithm. As regions for storing added image qualityadjustment algorithms, four reserved regions are provided within theimage quality adjustment information area described above that isprovided within the memory 20. When an image quality adjustmentalgorithm has been added, that image quality adjustment algorithm isstored in one of the above described reserved regions. Moreover, thestandard parameter group that is used in that image quality adjustmentalgorithm (i.e. its default values) is stored in correspondence withthat added image quality adjustment algorithm in the area for standardparameters that is provided within the above described memory 20.

When an image quality adjustment algorithm has been added, thiselectronic camera can use, as appropriate, any one of the four imagequality adjustment algorithms that are used for normal image qualityadjustment, and also the image quality adjustment algorithm that hasbeen added. It should be understood that, if the image qualityadjustment algorithm that has been added is to be used, the feature thata standard parameter group (i.e. default values) is used if actuation tochange the parameters has not been performed, and the feature that theparameter group after it has been changed is used if actuation to changethe parameters has been performed, are the same as in the case of one ofthe four image quality adjustment algorithms that are used for normalimage quality adjustment.

Storage of a Parameter Group after it has been Changed

This electronic camera is built so that it is possible to store aparameter group after it has been changed. As regions for housing suchstored data there are provided, within the memory 20 described above,custom areas for standard parameters, areas for changed parameters, andareas for image quality adjustment IDs (for example, C-1 through C-8).These custom regions may be provided both within the memory 20 and uponthe recording medium 27.

For example, a case will be described in which a parameter group thathas been changed from the standard parameter group (i.e. the defaultvalues) used in the image quality adjustment algorithm for VI is storedin “C-3”, that is a custom region. The parameter group after it has beenchanged (i.e. its changed values), in other words the changed valuesthat are used as the image quality adjustment information for VI andthat are stored in the area for changed parameters of VI, and thedefault values for VI that are stored in the area for standardparameters, are stored as the default values for “C-3” in its area forstandard parameters, and an ID that specifies the image qualityadjustment algorithm that is the source for customization (in thisexample, VI) is stored in its area for image quality adjustment ID. Inother words, the ID information “VI” is stored in the area for imagequality adjustment ID of “C-3”, and the parameter group that was used inthe image quality adjustment algorithm for VI when it was registered(i.e. the default values for the custom C-3 upon the base VI) is storedin the area for standard parameters of “C-3”. It should be understoodthat, when parameter change actuation has been performed for a customsetting that is registered, the parameter group that has been changed isstored in the area for changed parameters of that changed customsetting.

With this electronic camera, when a parameter group after change hasbeen stored in a custom region, it is also possible to use thisparameter group that has been stored, in addition to the four imagequality adjustment algorithms that are used in normal image qualityadjustment and the image quality adjustment algorithm that has beenadded. It should be understood that, when using a parameter group thathas been stored, the image quality adjustment algorithm to which thatparameter group is applied is the image quality adjustment algorithmthat is denoted by the image quality adjustment ID.

The flow of the image quality adjustment setting that has been explainedabove will now be explained with reference to the menu screens shown byway of example in FIG. 5 and subsequent figures. Upon receipt of adepression actuation signal from the menu button (MENU) 201 (see FIG.2), the CPU 18 causes the photographic menu screen shown by way ofexample in FIG. 5 to be displayed upon the liquid crystal monitor 21.

Picture Control

Upon receipt of an upwards or downwards actuation signal from the multiselector 205, the CPU 18 causes the cursor to shift upwards or downwardsaccording to that actuation signal. And, upon receipt of a depressionactuation signal from the execute button (OK) 204 in the state in whichthe cursor is positioned over “picture control” (see FIG. 6), the CPU 18causes the list screen shown by way of example in FIG. 7 to be displayedupon the liquid crystal monitor 21.

The list screen for “picture control” (see FIG. 7) is an actuationscreen for using, as appropriate, one or another of the above describedfour image quality adjustment algorithms for normal image qualityadjustment. In FIG. 7, the four image quality adjustment algorithms “SDstandard”, “NL neutral”, “VI vivid”, and “MC monochrome” are displayedas a list. It should be understood that, if some other image qualityadjustment algorithm is added, the details of this addition are added tothe displayed list.

Upon receipt of an upwards or downwards actuation signal from the multiselector 205, the CPU 18 shifts the cursor upwards or downwardsaccording to this actuation signal. And, for example, upon receipt of anactuation signal from the multi selector 205 in the rightwards directionin the state (shown in FIG. 7) in which the cursor is positioned above“VI vivid”, the CPU 18 displays upon the liquid crystal monitor 21 anadjustment actuation screen such as that shown by way of example in FIG.8. FIG. 8 is an actuation screen for changing the parameters.

Referring to FIG. 8, upon receipt of an upwards or downwards actuationsignal from the multi selector 205, the CPU 18 shifts the cursor upwardsor downwards according to this actuation signal. Moreover, upon receiptof a rightwards or leftwards actuation signal from the multi selector205, the CPU 18 performs changing of the details that are being selectedby the cursor, according to this actuation signal. For example, uponreceipt of an actuation signal in the rightwards direction in the state(shown in FIG. 8) in which the cursor is positioned above “quickadjust”, the CPU 18 shifts the mark above the “quick adjust” bar in therightwards direction (see FIG. 9). And, upon receipt of a depressionactuation signal on the execute button 204 (OK) in this state, the CPU18 displays a list screen such as the one shown in FIG. 10 upon theliquid crystal monitor 21.

According to FIG. 10, an asterisk “*” is added to “VI vivid” so as toshow “VI vivid *”. This indicates that the standard parameter group (thedefault values for VI has been changed, and that the parameter group(the changed values) of ter having been changed has been stored in thearea for changed parameters. Here, “quick adjust” means an adjustment inwhich, by actuating the bar for a single item, a plurality of parameters(for example, contour accentuation, contrast, brightness, saturation,hue and the like) are controlled all together.

Instead of using “quick adjust”, it would also be acceptable to changethe corresponding parameters one at a time, by shifting the indicatingmarks on the bars for the various parameters one at a time. For example,upon receipt of an actuation signal in the rightwards direction in thestate in which the cursor is positioned over “contour accentuation” (seeFIG. 11), the indication on the “contour accentuation” bar is shifted inthe rightward direction. And, in this state, upon receipt of adepression actuation signal from the execute button (OK) 204, the CPU 18also displays upon the display monitor 21 the list screen shown by wayof example in FIG. 10. The features that the standard parameter group(the default values for VI) is changed, and that the parameter groupafter it has been changed (the changed values) is stored in the area forchanged parameters, are the same as during the above described “quickadjust”.

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204 while the list screen of FIG. 7 or FIG. 10 is being displayed,the CPU 18 sets information about the image quality adjustment algorithmbeing indicated by the cursor and information about the correspondingparameter group into the image processing circuit 13. Due to this, thedetails set by “picture control” are reflected in the image qualityadjustment processing that the image processing circuit 13 performs.

When the actuation screen shown by way of example in FIG. 8, FIG. 9, orFIG. 11 is being displayed, upon receipt of a depression actuationsignal from the delete button 206, the CPU 18 resets the details thathave been changed. In concrete terms, by deleting the parameter groupafter change (i.e. the changed values) stored in the area for changedparameters, the system returns to the standard parameter group (in theexample described above, to the default values for VI). This resetprocessing is simple, since the standard parameter group is stored inthe area for standard parameters.

Custom Picture Control

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204 in the state in which the cursor is positioned over “custompicture control” (shown in FIG. 12), the CPU 18 displays upon the liquidcrystal monitor 21 a menu screen such as that shown by way of example inFIG. 13.

This actuation screen for “custom picture control” (see FIG. 13) is anactuation screen for performing the above described addition of an imagequality adjustment algorithm or storage of a parameter group after ithas been changed. Upon receipt of an upwards or downwards actuationsignal from the multi selector 205, the CPU 18 shifts the cursor upwardsor downwards according to this actuation signal.

Choosing a Parameter Group

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204 in the state in which the cursor is positioned over “edit andregister” (shown in FIG. 13), the CPU 18 displays upon the liquidcrystal monitor 21 the list screen shown by way of example in FIG. 14.

FIG. 14 is a list screen for selecting the parameter group that is to bethe subject of being edited and registered with “custom picturecontrol”. In FIG. 14, a list is displayed of the four image qualityadjustment algorithms “SD standard”, “NL neutral”, “VI vivid *”, and “MCmonochrome”, and of the two groups of parameter information “C-2 FLOWER”and “C-4 SNOW SCENE”.

Here, each of “SD standard”, “NL neutral”, and “MC monochrome” denotes astandard parameter group. And “VI vivid *” denotes a parameter groupthat has been changed by the above described “picture control”.Moreover, “C-2 FLOWER” and “C-4 SNOW SCENE” denote parameter groups thathave been registered by the steps explained below.

Upon receipt of an upwards or downwards actuation signal from the multiselector 205, the CPU 18 shifts the cursor upwards or downwardsaccording to this actuation signal. And, for example, upon receipt of anactuation signal in the rightwards direction from the multi selector 205in the state in which the cursor is positioned over “VI vivid *” (shownin FIG. 14), the CPU 18 displays upon the liquid crystal monitor 21 theadjustment actuation screen shown by way of example in FIG. 15. FIG. 15is an actuation screen for changing the parameters, similar to FIG. 8.Upon this actuation screen, it is possible to change the parameters fora second time before registering them.

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204, the CPU 18 displays upon the liquid crystal monitor 21 thelist screen shown by way of example in FIG. 16. In FIG. 16, “C-1”through “C-7” correspond to the above described custom regions (C-1through C-8 in FIG. 4). Upon receipt of a depression actuation signalfrom the execute button (OK) 204 in the state (shown in FIG. 16) inwhich the cursor is positioned over some “not registered” item (forexample, “C-3 not registered”), apart from “C-2” and “C-4” that arealready registered, the CPU 18 displays upon the liquid crystal monitor21 the actuation screen shown by way of example in FIG. 17.

While displaying the change registered name screen of FIG. 17, the CPU18 assigns a registered name according to actuation signals from themulti selector 205 or the like. And, upon receipt of a depressionactuation signal from the execute button (OK) 204, the CPU 18 registersthe parameter group as, for example, “VIVID-2”, and displays upon theliquid crystal monitor 21 the actuation screen shown by way of examplein FIG. 12. For example, when registering in the custom region C-3 anddisplaying a list screen similar to that of FIG. 14, “C-3 VIVID-2” isadded to the display list.

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204 while the list screen of FIG. 14 is being displayed, the CPU 18sets information about the image quality adjustment algorithm beingdenoted by the cursor and about the corresponding parameter group intothe image processing circuit 13. Due to this, the details set by “custompicture control” are reflected in the image quality adjustmentprocessing performed by the image processing circuit 13.

It should be understood that, if this camera does not have an imagequality adjustment algorithm to which some parameter group applies, thenthe CPU 18 eliminates that parameter group from the display list of FIG.14.

Storing a Parameter Group Upon the Recording Medium

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204 in the state in which the cursor is positioned over “use memorycard” on the “custom picture control” menu screen (see FIG. 18), the CPU18 displays upon the liquid crystal monitor 21 the menu screen shown byway of example in FIG. 19.

FIG. 19 is an actuation screen for selecting processing when using“memory card”. Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from theexecute button (OK) 204 in the state in which the cursor is positionedover “copy to memory card” on the actuation screen of FIG. 19, the CPU18 displays upon the liquid crystal monitor 21 the list screen shown byway of example in FIG. 20.

In FIG. 20, “C-1” through “C-6” denote parameter groups to whichregistered names are appended, and that are stored in the custom regions(C-1 through C-8 in FIG. 4) that are provided in the memory 20. Uponreceipt of an upwards or downwards actuation signal from the multiselector 205, the CPU 18 shifts the cursor upwards or downwardsaccording to this actuation signal. And, upon receipt of an actuationsignal in the rightwards direction from the multi selector 205, the CPU18 puts a check into the check box for the registered name at which thecursor is positioned. The parameter group with the registered name thatis thus checked becomes the subject for being copied from the memory 20to the recording medium 27.

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204 in the state in which the cursor is positioned over “endselection” (shown in FIG. 21), the CPU 18 records the parameter groupwith the registered name that is the subject for copying as a custompicture adjustment file upon the recording medium 27, and displays uponthe liquid crystal monitor 21 the message “stored to memory card” (seeFIG. 22).

Storing a Parameter Group in the Camera

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204 in the state in which the cursor is positioned over “registerin camera” on a similar actuation screen to FIG. 19 (shown in FIG. 23),the CPU 18 displays upon the liquid crystal monitor 21 the list screenshown by way of example in FIG. 24.

In FIG. 24, “FLOWER”, “AUTUMN COLOR”, “SNOW SCENE”, “20070123” . . .denote custom picture adjustment files to which registered names areassigned and that are recorded upon the recording medium 27. Thesecustom picture adjustment files are files in each of which is included aparameter group, ID information that specifies an image qualityadjustment algorithm to be applied to that parameter group, and astandard parameter group for that image quality adjustment algorithm tobe applied to which parameter group. Upon receipt of an upwards ordownwards actuation signal from the multi selector 205, the CPU 18shifts the cursor upwards or downwards according to this actuationsignal.

It should be understood that, if an added base picture adjustment filethat includes an added image quality adjustment algorithm is stored onthe recording medium 27, then the registered name of this base pictureadjustment file is displayed upon the display list of FIG. 24, togetherwith the custom picture adjustment files. In FIG. 24, “SEPIA DREAM”denotes an added base picture adjustment file. It should be understoodthat it would also be acceptable to provide different display formatsfor the file name display of a base picture adjustment file and for thefile name display of a custom picture adjustment file. For example, amark (such as “*” or the like) could be added to the file name of a basepicture adjustment file, or its color could be changed. A base pictureadjustment file is a file that includes a standard parameter group andan image quality adjustment algorithm to be applied to this standardparameter group.

The CPU 18 eliminates from the display list of FIG. 24 any base pictureadjustment file that has an image quality adjustment algorithm that hasalready been added to within the memory 20. Moreover, if no applicableimage quality adjustment algorithm is present within the camera, the CPU18 also eliminates from the display list of FIG. 24 any custom pictureadjustment file that includes a parameter group to which that imagequality adjustment algorithm is applied.

Upon receipt of an actuation signal from the multi selector 205 in therightward direction in the state in which, for example, the cursor ispositioned over “AUTUMN COLOR” (shown in FIG. 24), the CPU 18 displaysupon the liquid crystal monitor 21 the adjustment actuation screen shownby way of example in FIG. 25. FIG. 25 is an actuation screen forchanging the parameters. With this actuation screen, it is possible tochange the parameters for a second time before storing them in thecamera.

It is arranged for it not to be possible to select the item “quickadjust” on the adjustment actuation screen for the parameter group of acustom picture adjustment file, that is different from the case ofmaking a change actuation for the parameter group of the base pictureadjustment file (see FIG. 8 and FIG. 15)

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204 in the state in which the cursor is positioned over, forexample, “AUTUMN COLOR” (shown in FIG. 24), the CPU 18 records thecontents of the picture adjustment file with the registered name that isto be the subject of storage in the memory 20.

Deleting a Parameter Group from the Recording Medium

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204 in the state (shown in FIG. 26) in which the cursor ispositioned over “delete from memory card” on an actuation screen similarto FIG. 19 (FIG. 23), the CPU 18 displays upon the liquid crystalmonitor 21 the list screen shown by way of example in FIG. 27.

In FIG. 27, “FLOWER”, “SEPIA DREAM”, “AUTUMN COLOR” . . . denote custompicture adjustment files recorded upon the recording medium 27 to whichregistered names are assigned. Upon receipt of an upwards or downwardsactuation signal from the multi selector 205, the CPU 18 shifts thecursor upwards or downwards according to this actuation signal.

And, upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the executebutton (OK) 204 in the state in which the cursor is positioned over, forexample, “AUTUMN COLOR” (FIG. 27), the CPU 18 displays upon the liquidcrystal monitor 21 the message shown by way of example in FIG. 28. Then,upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204, the CPU 18 deletes from the recording medium 27 that pictureadjustment file whose registered name is the subject for deletion.

Deleting a Parameter Group from the Camera

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204 in the state in which the cursor is positioned over “delete” onthe menu screen for “custom picture control” (FIG. 29), the CPU 18displays upon the liquid crystal monitor 21 the menu screen shown by wayof example in FIG. 30. And, if an added base picture adjustment file isstored in the memory 20, the CPU 18 also displays this added basepicture adjustment file upon the liquid crystal monitor 21, togetherwith the custom picture adjustment file. However, if a custom pictureadjustment file based upon that base picture adjustment file is presentwithin the memory 20, then the CPU 18 eliminates that base pictureadjustment file from the display list of FIG. 30. This is in order toprevent the base picture adjustment file being deleted, which wouldresult in a custom picture adjustment file that could not be usedremaining within the camera. It should be understood that it would alsobe acceptable to arrange for the base picture adjustment files for“standard”, “neutral”, “vivid”, and “monochrome” to be taken as beingthe subject for deletion, as well as the added base picture adjustmentfiles that are stored in the memory 20. However, in this case, sinceimage processing within the camera main body 200 becomes impossible ifall of the base picture adjustment files are deleted, accordingly, ifonly one base picture adjustment file is present within the memory 20,the deletion of that base picture adjustment file is prohibited.

In FIG. 30, “C-1” through “C-7” denote parameter groups stored in thecustom regions (C-1 through C-8 in FIG. 4) that are provided in thememory 20 with registered names assigned to them. Upon receipt of anupwards or downwards actuation signal from the multi selector 205, theCPU 18 shifts the cursor upwards or downwards according to thisactuation signal.

And, upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the executebutton (OK) 204 in the state in which the cursor is positioned over, forexample, “C-2 FLOWER” (FIG. 30), the CPU 18 displays upon the liquidcrystal monitor 21 the message shown by way of example in FIG. 31. And,upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204, the CPU 18 deletes from the memory 20 the parameter groupwhose registered name is the subject for deletion.

Changing the Registered Name of a Parameter Group

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204 in the state in which the cursor is positioned over “changeregistered name” on the “custom picture control” menu screen (FIG. 32),the CPU 18 displays upon the liquid crystal monitor 21 the menu screenshown by way of example in FIG. 33.

In FIG. 33, “C-1” through “C-7” denote parameter groups stored in thecustom regions (C-1 through C-8 in FIG. 4) that are provided in thememory 20 with registered names assigned to them. Upon receipt of anupwards or downwards actuation signal from the multi selector 205, theCPU 18 shifts the cursor upwards or downwards according to thisactuation signal.

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the execute button(OK) 204 in the state in which the cursor is positioned over, forexample, “C-2 FLOWER” (FIG. 33), the CPU 18 displays a similar actuationscreen to FIG. 17 upon the liquid crystal monitor 21.

And the CPU 18 assigns a registered name according to actuation signalsfrom the multi selector 205 or the like while the change registered namescreen of FIG. 17 is being displayed. Then, upon receipt of a depressionactuation signal from the execute button (OK) 204, the CPU 18 displaysupon the liquid crystal monitor 21 the actuation screen of FIG. 12, withthe name changed to the newly registered name.

Base Picture Adjustment Files

The contents included in a base picture adjustment file will now beexplained. A base picture adjustment file includes:

[a1] type of device ID

[a2] the image quality adjustment ID

[a3] title of the image quality adjustment (ASCII)

[a4] abbreviation for the image quality adjustment (ASCII)

[a5] icon data denoting the image quality adjustment

[a6] title of the image quality adjustment (various languages)

[a7] help display (various languages)

[a8] font data for various languages

[a9] file record information

[a10] map information specifying the image quality adjustment

[a11] standard parameter group

[a12] the image quality adjustment algorithm

The type of device ID information is information that specifies whattype of device the electronic camera is. The image quality adjustment IDinformation is information that specifies the image quality adjustmentalgorithm. The title of image quality adjustment is, for example,“Vivid”, while the abbreviation for image quality adjustment is, forexample, “VI”. The icon data denoting image quality adjustment isdisplay data when an icon is to be displayed. The title of image qualityadjustment is display information for various languages. The helpdisplay information is display information for various languages. Thefont data for various languages is information about the fonts forvarious languages. The file record information is information related tothat file. The map information specifying image quality adjustment isinformation for displaying a map, as will be described hereinafter. Andthe standard parameter group and the image quality adjustment algorithmare as described above.

Custom Picture Adjustment Files

The contents included in a custom picture adjustment file will now beexplained. A custom picture adjustment file includes:

[b1] type of device ID

[b2] the image quality adjustment ID

[b3] title of the image quality adjustment (ASCII)

[b4] file record information

[b5] parameter group

[b6] standard parameter group

The type of device ID information is information that specifies whattype of device the electronic camera is. The image quality adjustment IDinformation is information that specifies the image quality adjustmentalgorithm. The title of image quality adjustment is, for example,“Vivid”. The file record information is information related to thatfile. And the standard parameter group and the image quality adjustmentalgorithm are as described above.

Quick Adjustment

Now “quick adjust” upon the actuation screens for changing parametersshown by way of example in FIGS. 8, 9, and 15 will be explained indetail. In FIGS. 8, 9, and 15, it is arranged for a mark upon a quickadjust bar to be shiftable in five steps: the center (0), two steps tothe left, and two steps to the right. In this embodiment, combinationsof settings for contour accentuation, contrast, brightness, saturation,and hue are determined in advance for each of the five steps of quickadjustment, as shown in the examples in FIGS. 34 and 35, and are storedin the memory 20.

The CPU 18 reads out the data in the table of FIG. 34 or FIG. 35according to the position of the mark upon the quick adjust bar, andchanges the adjusted value for each of the parameters contouraccentuation, contrast, brightness, saturation, and hue according to thedata that has been read out.

For example, when performing quick adjustment upon the standardparameter group of the image quality adjustment algorithm “Vivid”, then,if the mark upon the quick adjust bar is shifted one step to the rightfrom the center (0) position, then the CPU 18 reads out the data “5, +1,0, +1, 0” that corresponds to the quick adjust level “+1” in FIG. 35.And the CPU 18 changes the parameter group by shifting the mark upon the“contour accentuation” bar to “5”, the mark upon the “contrast” bar to“+1”, the mark upon the “brightness” bar to “0”, the mark upon the“saturation” bar to “+1”, and the mark upon the “hue” bar to “0”. Thetable data in FIGS. 34 and 35 are determined so as to correspond to thepositions of the marks upon the bars, if each of the parameters ischanged individually.

When performing “quick adjust” after having performed actuation tochange one or more parameters individually by using an actuation screensuch as the one shown by way of example in FIG. 11, it sometimes happensthat there is an incompatibility with the values of parameters that havebeen changed individually. In this case, the CPU 18 displays a messagesuch as the one shown by way of example in FIG. 36 upon the liquidcrystal monitor 21, and then, upon receipt of a depression actuationsignal from the execute button (OK) 204, makes the value of theindividually changed parameter ineffective, and stores the parameter setvalue according to “quick adjust”.

Map Display

If a depression actuation signal from the function button (F) 202 hasbeen received during display of the “picture control” list screen (FIG.7 or FIG. 10), then the CPU 18 displays a map display showing the imagequality adjustment upon the liquid crystal monitor 21. FIG. 37 is afigure showing an example of a map display screen that corresponds tothe list screen of FIG. 7. This map display is one that shows thecharacteristics of image quality adjustment upon a two dimensionalsurface, with the saturation in a parameter group being shown along thehorizontal axis and the contrast being shown along the vertical axis.This type of two dimensional plane display is also termed a “griddisplay”.

In FIG. 37, “V”, “N”, and “S” are displayed upon the two dimensionalplane surface. “V” specifies the contrast and the saturation of thestandard parameters that correspond to the basic picture adjustment file“Vivid”. In a similar manner, “S” specifies the contrast and thesaturation of the standard parameters that correspond to the basicpicture adjustment file “Standard”, and “N” specifies the contrast andthe saturation of the standard parameters that correspond to the basicpicture adjustment file “Neutral”. And “M” corresponds to the basicpicture adjustment file “Monochrome”. Since in the case of “Monochrome”no saturation information is included in the standard parameters,accordingly only contrast information is specified in the right endportion of the two dimensional plane surface.

The image quality adjustment algorithms “SD” (standard), “NL” (neutral),“VI” (vivid), and “MC” (monochrome) are displayed as a list at the upperright portion of the map display screen. Upon receipt of an upwards ordownwards actuation signal from the multi selector 205, the CPU 18shifts the cursor upwards or downwards over the list display accordingto this actuation signal. In the state in which the cursor ispositioned, for example, over “VI” (vivid), the “V” in the map displayis displayed as accentuated (for example by a black character displayupon a white ground), i.e. in a different manner as compared with theother “S”, “N”, and “M”.

Upon receipt of an actuation signal from the multi selector 205 in therightwards direction while the map display screen is being displayed,the CPU 18 displays the adjustment actuation screen shown by way ofexample in FIG. 8 upon the liquid crystal monitor 21. Moreover, uponreceipt of a depression actuation signal from the function button (F)202 while the map display screen is being displayed, the CPU 18 displaysthe list screen shown in FIG. 7 upon the liquid crystal monitor 21.

FIG. 38 is a figure showing an example of a map display screen thatcorresponds to the list screen of FIG. 10. As compared with FIG. 37, thedistinction between the displayed marks “VI” (Vivid) and “VI*” (Vivid*)will be understood. This means that it is arranged to be able tocompare, upon the two dimensional plane, the image quality adjustmentaccording to the standard parameter group (the default values for“Vivid”), and the image quality adjustment according to the parametergroup that has been changed (i.e. according to the changed values).

Upon receipt of a depression actuation signal from the function button(F) 202 while the list screen for “custom picture control” is beingdisplayed (FIG. 14) as well, the CPU 18 displays a map display (i.e. agrid display) showing the image quality adjustment upon the liquidcrystal monitor 21. FIG. 39 is a figure showing an example of a mapdisplay screen that corresponds to the list screen of FIG. 14. Ascompared with FIG. 38, the feature of difference is that two marks “2”(C-2) and “4” (C-4) are added for parameter information corresponding tocustom picture adjustment files.

Upon receipt of an actuation signal from the multi selector 205 in therightwards direction while the map display screen is being displayed,the CPU 18 displays the adjustment actuation screen shown by way ofexample in FIG. 15 upon the liquid crystal monitor 21. And, upon receiptof a depression actuation signal from the function button (F) 202 whilethe map display screen is being displayed, the CPU 18 displays the listscreen shown in FIG. 14 upon the liquid crystal monitor 21.

Overlapping Processing

In the case of “custom picture control”, in addition to the standardparameter information for a basic picture adjustment file, the parameterinformation for custom picture adjustment files is displayed upon themap. Due to this, if a large number of custom picture adjustment filesare registered, the contents of the display become crowded. FIG. 40 is afigure showing an example of a map display screen upon which a largenumber of custom picture adjustment files are registered.

In FIG. 40, there is shown an example of a case in which the three setsof parameter information “6” (C-6), “7” (C-7), and “8” (C-8) are showntogether upon the map. In this case, as a representative, the CPU 18displays only the parameter information “6” (C-6) upon the map, andomits the display upon the map of the parameter information “7” (C-7)and the parameter information “8” (C-8). Moreover, the CPU 18 shows thatthese are common upon the map by connecting the “6” (C-6), the “7”(C-7), and the “8” (C-8) in the list display at the right portion of thescreen together with a line. When displaying such common parameterinformation in a representative manner like this, the set that is shownin an upper position in the list display is displayed as a priority uponthe map.

Priority Display

FIG. 41 is a figure in which the map display portion has been extracted,in order to explain the overlapping processing. In the case of FIG. 41,two sets of parameter information “2” (C-2) and “5” (C-5) thatcorrespond to custom picture adjustment files are shown together uponthe map. The CPU 18 joins the “2” (C-2) and the “5” (C-5) in the listdisplay at the right portion of the screen together with a line. At thistime, by inserting the “5” (C-5) before the “3” (C-3) and the “4” (C-4)in the list order, the “2” (C-2) and the “5” (C-5) that are showntogether upon the map are displayed so as directly to follow oneanother. Since, in FIG. 41, the cursor is positioned over “2” (C-2),accordingly “2” is displayed as priority in the map display.

FIG. 42 is a figure showing the example of the map display screen whenthe cursor has been shifted over “5” (C-5). In this case, instead ofdisplaying the uppermost one in the list display as a priority, “5” inthe map display that corresponds to the cursor position is displayed asa priority.

Display Showing Automatic Settings

It is arranged for the electronic camera to be possible to performautomatic settings for “contrast” and “saturation” by shifting the markupon the bar for each parameter, as shown by way of example in FIG. 11that is an actuation screen used for changing the parameters. The CPU 18automatically sets each of these parameters when the mark upon its baris shifted to a position “A” at its left end. When the automatic settingrelated to “contrast” has been made, the CPU 18 sets a parameter thatdetermines the strength of “contrast” automatically from the image thatis to be the subject of the image quality adjustment processing.Furthermore, when the automatic setting related to “saturation” has beenmade, the CPU 18 sets a parameter that determines the “saturation”automatically from the image that is to be the subject of the imagequality adjustment processing.

When showing the automatic settings described above upon the mapdisplay, the CPU 18 shows these automatic settings by drawing a lineupon the map. FIG. 43 is a figure showing an example of a map displayscreen when the parameter “contrast” for the custom picture adjustmentfile “3” (C-3) is set automatically. A line that extends vertically isdisplayed through the “3” in the map display.

And FIG. 44 is a figure showing an example of a map display screen when,for the custom picture adjustment file “3” (C-3), in addition to theparameter “contrast”, the parameter “saturation” is also setautomatically. Lines that extend both vertically and also horizontallyare displayed through the “3” in the map display.

According to the embodiment explained above, the following beneficialoperational effects are obtained.

(1) Since this electronic camera uses one or the other of the imagequality adjustment algorithms [1] through [4] listed below asappropriate, accordingly it is possible to adjust the finishedphotographed image over a wider range, as compared with the case inwhich the parameters are only changed in a single image qualityadjustment algorithm.

[1] standard

[2] neutral

[3] vivid

[4] monochrome

(2) Since it is arranged for the electronic camera to be possible tochange the standard parameter group that is applied to each qualityadjustment algorithm, accordingly it is possible to adjust the finishedphotographed image very minutely.

(3) Since it is arranged for the electronic camera to be possible tostore the parameter group after it has been changed, accordingly it ispossible to improve the convenience of use from the point of view of theuser, as compared to the case in which the changed parameter groupdisappears since it is not stored.

(4) Since, once a parameter group has been changed and stored, it isarranged for the electronic camera to be possible to change theparameter group and to store it for a second time, accordingly it ispossible even further to enhance the convenience of use from the pointof view of the user.

(5) Since it is arranged for the electronic camera to store the standardparameter group along with a parameter group after it has been changed,accordingly it is possible to return the settings to the standardparameter group by a reset operation. Thus the convenience of use fromthe point of view of the user is good, since it is possible to return tothe standard parameter group in a simple manner. It should be understoodthat, if a custom picture adjustment file is subjected to this resetoperation, the system returns to the values that are stored in the areafor standard parameters of that custom picture adjustment file, in otherwords to the adjusted values when the custom picture adjustment file wasregistered.

(6) Since, when storing a parameter group after it has been changed(i.e. its changed values), in addition to the above described standardparameter group, it is arranged for the electronic camera to store theID information that specifies the corresponding image quality adjustmentalgorithm, accordingly it is possible to perform storage sorted by imagequality adjustment algorithm.

(7) Since it is arranged for the electronic camera to be chosen both theselection of an image quality adjustment algorithm among the imagequality adjustment algorithms [1] through [4] (picture control) and theselection of a changed parameter group (custom picture control) uponsimilar list screens, (FIGS. 7 and 14), accordingly it is possible tochoose the settings for the finished photographed image with a simpleactuation.

(8) If no image quality adjustment algorithm that applies some parametergroup is stored in the camera, then that parameter group is eliminatedfrom the list display of FIG. 14. Due to this, it is possible to avoidthe occurrence of a state of affairs in which, although a parametergroup has been chosen, it is not possible to apply any image qualityadjustment algorithm.

It should be understood that it would also be acceptable to arrange todisplay a warning message upon the liquid crystal monitor 21 to theeffect that no image quality adjustment algorithm corresponding to thatparameter group is stored in the camera.

(9) If, with a base picture adjustment file that includes an imagequality adjustment algorithm being stored in the memory 20, some custompicture adjustment file that has been generated based upon that basepicture adjustment file is also stored in the memory 20, then this basepicture adjustment file is eliminated from the delete list of FIG. 30.Due to this, it is possible to avoid any danger of a custom pictureadjustment file that cannot be used becoming present.

It should be understood that it would also be acceptable to arrange,before deleting such a base picture adjustment file, to display awarning message upon the liquid crystal monitor 21 to the effect that acustom picture adjustment file is about to be present that cannot beused.

(10) It is arranged to make it possible to add another image qualityadjustment algorithm to the electronic camera, by recording the contentsof a base picture adjustment file from the recording medium 27, in whichthe base picture adjustment file including the image quality adjustmentalgorithm for addition is stored, into the memory 20 within the camera.If the electronic camera to which the image quality adjustment algorithmhas been added uses, as appropriate, either one of the image qualityalgorithms [1] through [4] that are used in normal image qualityadjustment, or the image quality algorithm that has been added, then itis possible to adjust the finished photographic image within a widerange.

(11) Since [a3] the title of the image quality adjustment, [a10] the mapinformation specifying the image quality adjustment, and [a5] the iconinformation are included in the basic picture adjustment file,accordingly, when adding an image quality adjustment algorithm to theelectronic camera, it is possible to display the list screen foraddition upon the liquid crystal monitor 21 in a manner that is easy tounderstand from the point of view of the user.

(12) Since it is arranged for the electronic camera to be possible torecord upon the recording medium 27 the basic picture adjustment file,that includes [a11] the standard parameter group and [a12] the imagequality adjustment algorithm, accordingly it is possible to supply thenecessary information for image adjustment from the electronic camera toan external device in a simple and easy manner.

(13) It is arranged for the electronic camera to be possible to add tothe electronic camera a parameter group that applies to an image qualityadjustment algorithm by recording, from a recording medium 27 upon whicha custom picture adjustment file that includes that parameter group foraddition is stored, the contents of that custom picture adjustment fileinto the memory 20 within the camera. If the electronic camera to whichthis parameter group has been added is used for performing image qualityadjustment by applying this parameter group that has been added to animage quality adjustment algorithm that is present within the camera,then it is possible to adjust the finished photographed image in aminute manner.

(14) Since it is arranged for the electronic camera to be capable ofrecording a custom picture adjustment file, that includes [b2] the imagequality adjustment ID, [b5] the parameter group, and [b6] the standardparameter group, upon the recording medium 27, accordingly it ispossible to supply the information that is needed for image adjustmentfrom the electronic camera to an external device in a simple and easymanner.

(15) When performing actuation to change a parameter group that isapplied to an image quality adjustment algorithm, then “quick adjust” ismade possible, in which by actuating a single bar it is possible tocontrol a plurality of parameters (contour accentuation, contrast,brightness, saturation, and hue) all together. As compared with the casein which actuation is performed individually for each of the parameters,it is possible to execute the changes in a simple manner.

(16) Since it is arranged for the electronic camera to be possible tochoose “quick adjust” or an adjustment method in which actuation isperformed to change each of the parameters individually, accordingly itis possible to adjust the parameter group with the adjustment methodthat the user prefers.

(17) Since, when “quick adjust” is performed after having performingindividual change actuation for the parameter group, it is arranged todisplay a message upon the liquid crystal monitor 21 to the effect thatthose details that have been individually changed will become invalid(because they will be updated to the details set by the quick adjust),accordingly it is possible to reduce the fear that parameters thatreflect the desires of the user will be undesirably changed.

It should be understood that it would also be acceptable, when actuationis performed to make an individual change on a parameter group after ithas been subjected to “quick adjust”, to arrange to display a messageupon the liquid crystal monitor 21 to the effect that the details thathave been changed by “quick adjust” are going to become invalid (becausethese set details are going to be updated due to the individualadjustment).

(18) It is arranged to display the characteristics of the image qualityadjustment by a map display upon a two dimensional plane surface withtwo parameters of a group that is applied to the image qualityadjustment algorithm being taken as the two axes, in which thecorresponding parameter values are plotted. In particular, since the twoaxes are taken as being saturation and contrast, the characteristics ofthe image quality adjustment can be expressed in a manner that is easyto understand.

(19) Since a plurality of image quality adjustment algorithms (basicpicture adjustments) and parameter groups (custom picture adjustments)are all shown upon the map in mutual correspondence, accordingly it ispossible to express the differences between various image qualityadjustments in a manner that is easy to understand.

(20) Since, if several plot positions are mutually overlapped, it isarranged to display a predetermined one thereof as a priority,accordingly the overlapping of a plurality of plot positions does notbecome troublesome, and it is possible to express the characteristics ofthe image quality adjustment in a manner that is easy to understand.

It should be understood that, apart from displaying only the subject ofpriority with a priority display, it would also be acceptable to arrangeto provide a display from which it may be understood that a plurality ofsubjects are overlapped, by displaying the uppermost subject as apriority and by displaying the others as shadowed.

(21) Since it is arranged to display the member of the list that is inan upper position as a priority, or to display the member in the listthat has been selected as a priority, accordingly it is possible todisplay the characteristics of image quality adjustment related to basicpicture adjustment and custom picture adjustment that the user desiresto know.

(22) Since it is arranged to specify only the contrast information whenthe image quality adjustment algorithm is “monochrome”, accordingly itis possible to express the disparity with the other image qualityadjustment algorithms (“standard”, “vivid”, and so on) in a manner thatis easy to understand.

(23) Since, when a parameter (saturation or contrast) that correspondsto one of the two axes is set automatically (i.e. the electronic cameradetermines this parameter automatically from the image that is thesubject of image quality adjustment processing), it is arranged todisplay this parameter as a line upon the map, accordingly it is alsopossible to display the characteristics of image quality adjustmentduring automatic setting in a manner that is easily understood.

It should be understood that, in this case when a line is displayed, itwould also be acceptable to arrange to display a line of a length thatcorresponds to the permitted range for auto setting.

Variant Embodiment #1

It would also be acceptable to endow the electronic camera with a modein which no image quality adjustment processing is performed upon thephotographed image, and, rather, a basic picture adjustment file thatincludes the image quality adjustment algorithm selected by “picturecontrol” is stored upon the recording medium 27 in correspondence withthe file for the photographed image.

According to this variant embodiment #1, the photographed image file andthe basic picture adjustment file that have been stored upon therecording medium 27 are both read out by an external device (forexample, a personal computer), and image adjustment processing for thatphotographed image is performed by the external device applying theparameter group that is recorded in the basic picture adjustment file tothe image quality adjustment algorithm in the basic picture adjustmentfile.

Variant Embodiment #2

It would also be acceptable to endow the electronic camera with a modein which no image quality adjustment processing is performed upon thephotographed image, and, rather, a custom picture adjustment file thatis selected by “custom picture control” is stored upon the recordingmedium 27 in correspondence with the file for the photographed image.

According to this variant embodiment #2, the photographed image file andthe custom picture adjustment file that have been stored upon therecording medium 27 are both read out by an external device (forexample, a personal computer), and image adjustment processing for thatphotographed image is performed by the external device applying theparameter group that is recorded in the custom picture adjustment fileto the image quality adjustment algorithm that is specified by the IDinformation in the custom picture adjustment file. In this case, theimage quality adjustment algorithm that is specified by the IDinformation should be stored in advance in that external device.

Variant Embodiment #3

Even though, on the list screens of FIGS. 7, 10, 14, 16, 20, 21, 24, 27,30, and 33, all of titles, icons, and abbreviations are explicitlydisplayed, it would also be acceptable to arranged to display only oneor more thereof.

Variant Embodiment #4

Although an example has been explained in which the basic pictureadjustment files and the custom picture adjustment files are read outfrom the recording medium 27, it would also be acceptable to arrange toacquire them by communication with an external device (either by cableor by wireless). Moreover, other than storing the basic pictureadjustment files and the custom picture adjustment files upon therecording medium 27, it would also be acceptable to arrange for it to bepossible to send these basic picture adjustment files and custom pictureadjustment files to an external device by communication (either by cableor by wireless).

Variant Embodiment #5

The number of basic picture adjustments (image adjustment algorithms)possessed by the electronic camera, the number of image adjustmentalgorithms that can be added from the exterior, and the number of areasfor custom picture adjustment (C-1 through C-8) are not limited to thevalues described above, and may be changed as appropriate.

The above explanation is only an example, and is not to be considered asbeing limitative of the structure of the embodiments described above inany way.

What is claimed is:
 1. An electronic camera, comprising: a storing unitthat stores, as adjustment parameter groups used for image qualityadjustment to an image, a first adjustment parameter group including atleast a first adjustment parameter as an adjustment parameter used in afirst adjustment processing and a second adjustment parameter as anadjustment parameter used in a second adjustment processing, and asecond adjustment parameter group including at least a third adjustmentparameter as an adjustment parameter used in the first adjustmentprocessing and a fourth adjustment parameter as an adjustment parameterused in the second adjustment processing; a setting unit that sets, asthe adjustment parameter group used for the image quality adjustment,the first parameter group or the second parameter group; a displaycontrol unit that displays a first screen upon a display device, whenthe first adjustment parameter group is set by the setting unit,including a mark indicating that the first adjustment parameter group isset as the adjustment parameter group used for the image qualityadjustment, a mark indicating that the first adjustment parameter is setas the adjustment parameter used in the first adjustment processing, anda mark indicating that the second adjustment parameter is set as theadjustment parameter used in the second adjustment processing; and achanging unit that changes the first adjustment parameter group set bythe setting unit to the second adjustment parameter group, wherein uponthe changing unit changes the first adjustment parameter group set bythe setting unit to the second adjustment parameter group, the settingunit sets the second adjustment parameter group as the adjustmentparameter group used for the image quality adjustment, and the displaycontrol unit displays a second screen upon the display device includinga mark indicating that the second adjustment parameter group is set asthe adjustment parameter group used for the image quality adjustment, amark indicating that the third adjustment parameter is set as theadjustment parameter used in the first adjustment processing, and a markindicating that the fourth adjustment parameter is set as the adjustmentparameter used in the second adjustment processing.
 2. The electroniccamera according to claim 1, further comprising a changeover unit thatchanges over between, a first setting mode in which the adjustingparameter used in the first adjustment processing and the adjustingparameter used in the second adjustment processing are set in responseto setting the adjustment parameter group, and a second setting mode inwhich setting the adjustment parameter used in the first adjustmentprocessing and the adjusting parameter used in the second adjustmentprocessing are set individually.
 3. The electronic camera according toclaim 2, further comprising a notification unit that, when the settingparameter group is set in the first setting mode in a state that thesetting unit sets at least the adjusting parameter used in the firstadjustment processing or sets the adjusting parameter used in the secondadjustment processing, notifies that at least the adjustment parameterused in the first adjustment processing or the adjustment parameter usedin the second adjustment processing set in the second setting mode willbecome invalid, before the adjustment parameter used in the firstadjustment processing and the adjustment parameter used in the secondadjustment processing are set in accordance with the adjustmentparameter group already set in the first setting mode, and when at leastthe adjustment parameter used in the first adjustment processing or theadjustment parameter used in the second adjustment processing is set inthe second setting mode in a state that the adjusting parameter used inthe first adjustment processing and the adjusting parameter used in thesecond adjustment processing are set by setting the adjustment parametergroup in the first setting mode, does not notify that the adjustmentparameter used in the first adjustment processing and the adjustmentparameter used in the second adjustment processing already set in thefirst setting mode will become invalid.
 4. The electronic cameraaccording to claim 1, wherein the first adjustment processing and thesecond adjustment processing are different processes separate from eachother, and each of the first adjustment processing and the secondadjustment processing is any one of a contour accentuation processing, achanging contrast processing, a changing brightness processing, achanging saturation processing, and a changing hue processing.